Typhoon Matmo Causes Severe Landslides in Taroko, Multiple Scenic Spots Temporarily Closed

▲ Landslide at the entrance of the Shakadang Tunnel in Taroko; the park administration has initiated emergency repairs. (Photo / Courtesy of Taroko National Park official website)

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

The heavy rainfall brought by Typhoon Matmo, a medium-strength typhoon, has caused landslides along the Central Cross-Island Highway within Taroko National Park. The Taroko National Park Administration has been fully engaged in environmental cleanup and restoration efforts, while also dispatching personnel to inspect the affected trails and scenic areas.Currently, aside from the visitor center, all other scenic spots and trails in the park remain closed. Visitors are advised not to enter the area for the time being.

According to the Taroko National Park Administration, preliminary findings indicate that after the typhoon, landslides occurred at the entrance of the Shakadang Tunnel, with mudflows extending all the way to Jinwen Bridge and the Taroko Entrance. A thick layer of mud and sand accumulated on the bridge and road surface, resulting in road closures. The Baishabridge section of the Central Cross-Island Highway was also severely damaged due to the heavy rain brought by the typhoon, with large amounts of earth and rocks collapsing, leading to a complete halt of traffic on the highway. Repairs are currently underway by the Luoshao Maintenance Section of the Directorate General of Highways, with reopening expected around August 15.

Due to the disruption on the Central Cross-Island Highway, the park administration has dispatched personnel to carry out recovery and inspection work. The Taroko Entrance and the Taroko Visitor Center reopened on July 24, while the Changchun Shrine is expected to reopen after restoration on July 28. As for Buluowan, Swallow Grotto, and various trails, they will reopen after the Baishabridge section is cleared, as these areas have been affected by the landslides there.